Sakura Viewing in Daigoji Temple, Kyoto

daigoji sakura cherry blossoms

Daigoji Temple, established in 874 and designated as a World Heritage Site, is renowned as a popular destination for cherry blossom viewing. It is where Toyotomi Hideyoshi famously hosted his “Daigo no Hanami” cherry blossom viewing party. The temple’s magnificent grounds, adorned with two national treasures; a stunning five-story pagoda (五重塔) and Kondō (金堂 Golden Hall) and other historic buildings, … Read More

Five Japanese customs that you may surprise

bowing Japanese custom

Japan is a country rich in culture, traditions, and customs that can sometimes be surprising and even strange to outsiders. From bowing as a sign of respect to otōshi in restaurants, there are many common senses in Japan that may seem unusual or unfamiliar to those unfamiliar with Japanese culture.

My Top 5 Sakura viewing spots

My best Hanami spots

Travel to Japan during the beautiful Sakura season and witness nature’s amazing transformation! Me Kazue visited many cherry blossom spots in Japan, and here are the top 5 Ohanami spots of my selection! No.5 – Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto🚶🌸 Stroll along the canal to experience a serene escape in nature! The two-kilometer path, named after renowned philosopher Nishida Kitaro who … Read More

Your Guide to the Japan Rail Pass【Latest Edition 2022-2023】

guide to JR Pass 2022 - 2023

If you’re visiting Japan for sight-seeing and plan on frequently using the public transportation system to get around, then the JR Pass is a great deal! The vast majority of trains in Japan are owned and operated by the Japan Railways (JR) Group, and after purchasing a JR pass, you can ride all JR trains and even the Shinkansen! Read … Read More

Your Ultimate Guide to Japanese Trains

mt fuji bullet train

Japan’s public transportation system is known for being one of the most advanced and reliable in the entire world! If you’re visiting Japan, the train system is an especially convenient and affordable way to travel. Here’s everything you need to know about taking the trains in Japan.

Why Fall in Japan is Better Than the Spring

momijigari boat Kyoto river

Spring in Japan, famous for its breath-taking cherry blossoms, is by far the most popular time of the year for tourists. But, fall in Japan has incredible beauty, delicious foods, and pleasant weather that definitely rivals the spring! Here’s why you should visit Japan in autumn!

How to Keep Warm During Winter in JAPAN

Keep Warm in Winter Thumbnail

Winter in Japan usually lasts from December until February, and can be pretty unforgiving if you’re not used to the cold. Temperatures average around 2ºC~10ºC (35°F~50°F) in city areas, and can get as low as -6°C (21°F) in country side and even colder in Hokkaido! If you’re visiting Japan during the winter months, you’ll definitely want to take care to … Read More

Feel peace of mind at Zentsuji Temple

zentsuji walkthrough and drive

If you are looking for a calming place in the Japanese countryside, this is the place to be. Located in the western part of Kagawa Prefecture in Shikoku, the head temple of the Zentsuji School of Shingon Buddhism is the birthplace of Kukai (Kōbō Daishi) and is widely known as one of the three great spiritual sites of Kobo Daishi … Read More

Catch Your Own Fish At This Restaurant in Japan

fish your own dinner in a restaurant

Seafood doesn’t get any more fresh than this! At this uniquely interactive restaurant in Shinsekai, Osaka, you can use a rod to choose a type of fish, catch it, then have it cooked for you to eat! Here was our experience.

Top 10 November Events in JAPAN

The month of November is a beautiful time of transition in Japan. The leaves change colors for several weeks throughout the nation, and the festivals begin to shift from the harvest-centered events to colorful festivals featuring autumn foliage and LED illumination.From gorgeous maple festivals, to entire theme parks lit by millions of LED lightbulbs, here are our top 10 festivals … Read More